Snow days are every child’s dream. They get a break from school, a chance to sleep in and time to play. As a parent, these days can feel challenging, especially if you work from home. The best way to make the most of your time is to find creative ways to keep your kids busy.
Keep reading to discover eight fun activities for the next snow day!
1. Build a Snow Fort
Your children can embrace their inner construction skills as they build snow caves in the back yard. Using beach tools and buckets, your kids can pack snow and shape their dream winter fortress. This creative activity will take them hours to complete, and then once the walls are built, it’s time for a fun-filled snowball fight.
Be sure to dress your kids for the outdoors because spending that much time outside is sure to get chilly. Also, discuss the rules for your snowball showdown in advance to avoid injuries and hurt feelings.
2. Go Tubing
Tubing, sledding or sleigh riding — regardless of what your family calls it, grab your snow clothes and find the best hill in your area. The family will be full of laughter and smiles as they glide down the mountain and race against one another.
If you have a nearby ski resort, check to see if they offer snow tubing. Everyone will enjoy using the escalators rather than trekking back up the slopes. Plus, if your children are older, you can take a break to try other activities like skiing or snowboarding.
3. Design a Snow Sculpture
Why stick with the traditional snowmen? School’s out, and your kiddos have plenty of time to get creative with their sculpting abilities. Depending on your mood, encourage a friendly competition or teach them the importance of teamwork.
Popular snow sculpture designs include:
- Sea creatures
- Cartoon characters
- Animals
- People
Remember, your child’s imagination is the only limit!
4. Create an Outdoor Scavenger Hunt
With an outdoor scavenger hunt, your youngsters will transform into little explorers and archeologists. You can hide items around your back yard or send them out with a list of naturally occurring treasures like pine cones, flowers and rocks.
For a unique twist, let them use a disposable camera to take pictures of the objects they’re tracking down. At the end of the day, take the film and have it developed. Everyone will love looking at the beautiful outdoor photos your kiddo has captured.
5. Bring the Winter Weather Indoors
Who says playing with snow is an outdoor activity? Pile buckets of snow into your tub and let your little ones play all day. You can get to work knowing they’re safe inside without the risk of frostbite. Best of all, the mess stays in your tub! With a quick rinse, the snow will melt and wash down the drain.
If you only have a shower, consider filling an outdoor kiddie pool and bringing it indoors — it may be a little bit messy, but you’ll get the same effect.
6. Get Crafty
If your children prefer to stay indoors, snow days are the perfect time to make winter crafts. Imaginative activities build self-esteem and encourage expression. For young kids and toddlers, painting and sculpting can help develop visual-spatial skills and improve memory function.
Once they’ve finished, you can decorate your house with the crafts or give them as gifts to family and friends. If you’re searching for inspiration, consider gathering materials from the outdoors for seasonal flair.
7. Make Cookies and Hot Chocolate
Can you think of anything better than hot chocolate on a cold winter day — like maybe having some freshly baked cookies to go with it?
Using the oven will keep the house feeling cozy and warm. You’ll also have the opportunity to share some kitchen tips with your kids. This is one activity which everyone can enjoy, regardless of age. For an added winter touch, use themed cookie cutters to make entertaining shapes. If you’re feeling energized, make several types so you can use the extras for school lunches.
8. Have a Spa Day
Turn a busy snow day into hours of rest and relaxation for the entire family. You can break out the nail polish for a full manicure and pedicure routine or opt for massages and facials. With so many natural DIY recipes, you and your kids can have a spa experience that lasts for hours.
Fill your tub with bubbles or bath salts for a simple foot soak, which will have your youngsters splashing around in no time. For teenagers, take the time to highlight the importance of self-care. You can even introduce a meditation activity as part of your health and wellness theme.
It’s Time to Make Memories
Use these eight creative activities to keep your kids busy on snow days. These are moments to treasure — kids grow up fast, so take the time to slow down and make memories. Bust out your camera and capture the goofy smiles, innocent messes and winter fun.
